Tough Mudder

I’m fortunate and pleased to be the official photographer for the Tough Mudder series of endurance events. More than a typical mud run, Tough Mudder is an obstacle course designed by British Special Forces to test “all around strength, stamina, mental grit, and camaraderie.” Participants run 10-12 miles and overcome 20+ obstacles, including rough terrain, ice water, barbed wire, and electric shocks (yes, electric shocks). Through it all, competition is de-emphasized, and teamwork and camaraderie are encouraged (and often essential). All kinds of people participate: fitness freaks, adventure seekers, weekend warriors, moms, cops, college students, grandfathers, marines… In the past year, I’ve photographed Tough Mudder events in New Jersey (twice), Pennsylvania, Vermont, Texas (twice), Florida, Arizona, Virginia, Indiana, Wisconsin, Georgia, Ohio, and northern and southern California. It’s an event like no other, and no two Tough Mudders are ever the same. Here are some of my favorite TM photos to date.